Mzansi Newspaper, 4 Lehlogonolo Street, Mamelodi East, Pretoria (2025)

21/10/2025

Countdown to the 18th Crown Gospel Music Awards

Tickets Now Available
The Crown Gospel Music Awards return to Durban
Durban welcomes back Africa’s biggest celebration of Gospel Music

Durban, South Africa - 20 October 2025: The wait is over! Tickets for the highly anticipated 18th Annual Crown Gospel Music Awards are now officially on sale.

The prestigious event will be hosted on Sunday, 23 November 2025, at the Durban ICC Convention Centre. The Red Carpet opens at 4:00 PM, followed by the main Awards ceremony at 7:00 PM.

This year marks a special homecoming as the Crowns return to Durban after being hosted in Gauteng for the past two years.

Pastor S'thembiso Mtshali, the official spokesperson for the Crown Gospel Music Awards said, Durban is home.

“We are excited to be back where it all began, and we call upon the public to secure their seats early for what promises to be the biggest Gospel gathering in Africa.”

The Crown Gospel Music Awards bring together the who’s who of the Gospel music industry, celebrities, church leaders, and music lovers for a night of faith, inspiration, and glamour.

Recognised by Gospel News Africa as one of the continent’s premier Gospel events, the Crowns continue to honour the legacy of the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, the visionary founder of the Awards.

“This year will be a heartfelt tribute to her memory as we celebrate in her beloved city of Durban,” added Pastor Mtshali.

Nominees Announcement
This year’s Awards received a record-breaking 890 entries, reflecting the growing influence and reach of the Crowns. Both seasoned icons and emerging Gospel artists are set to compete for the coveted Crown trophies. The official list of nominees will be announced at the end of October, and fans are encouraged to stay tuned for the exciting reveal.

Ticket Information
Tickets are now available via Webtickets.
Fans are encouraged to purchase early to avoid disappointment.

20/10/2025

MAHINDRA FUSION FEST 2026 BUILD UP KICKS OFF AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN

MAHINDRA FUSION FEST LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE TALENT SEARCH

Cape Town, South Africa – The Mahindra Fusion Fest – SA’s boldest celebration of art, fashion and music – is back for 2026 and bigger than ever before!

After the phenomenal success of Fusion Fest 2025, which saw over 7,000 fans rocked by a blend of icons and rising stars, Mahindra is now going national with a pan-South African movement that fuses local culture, creativity, and community. With pre-ticket sales officially opening later this month, in addition to the nationwide talent search officially launched, the road to 7 March 2026 starts now.

To build true pan-SA appeal, Mahindra will host Fusion Fest Roadshows in Cape Town and Durban leading up to the actual festival next year, showcasing regional flavour in each city. By taking the roadshows to multiple cities, Mahindra aims to give South Africans across the country a taste of what Fusion Fest has to offer — a celebration of creativity, culture and community. At the heart of this campaign is a multi-faceted talent search under three lifestyle elements, each aligned to one of the festival’s creative pillars: Music, Fashion and Art. Winners of each competition will not only win a R30 000 cash prize but also get to feature at the main event.

Mahindra Fusion Fest - The Build Up tour officially kicked off its nationwide campaign yesterday at the University of Cape Town with an electrifying launch event that brought energy, excitement, and entertainment to campus attracting over 3 000 students, influencers and other stakeholders. Hosted by dynamic brand ambassador Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, the activation featured an unforgettable live performance by rising music sensation Zee Nxumalo. Attendees, who included media personalities Kelly Kikx, Kyeezi, Ryle Rene De Morny, Neevan Ferris, Thabiet Amardien, Lucian Albertyn and Missy Roberts, were treated to an interactive brand experience with art installations, fashion show and clothing activation with opportunities to win exciting prizes, engage in games and challenges. They also got the chance to experience the Mahindra lifestyle: fashion, music and art - all while enjoying a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere.

MAHINDRA X MUSIC
Mahindra South Africa is calling on unsigned local artists to step into the spotlight! Artists will get the chance to showcase their creativity by submitting an original short track inspired by the theme of fusion — whether that means blending genres, cultures, or sounds. Selected artists will gain exposure, connect with fellow creatives, and be part of a celebration of musical innovation. Renowned artist Zee Nxumalo, in collaboration with a distinguished panel of music industry experts, will be responsible for selecting the ultimate winner.

MAHINDRA X FASHION
The invites young designers to showcase their unique style and creative voice by submitting up to four original sketches that embody the spirit of fusion — whether it’s cultural, stylistic, or material. Designs can be brand new or pulled from your existing portfolio, as long as they reflect personal interpretation of fusion. This is more than a competition, it’s a platform. Finalists will gain industry recognition and invaluable exposure, with submissions reviewed by an esteemed panel of fashion industry giants.

MAHINDRA X ART
Emerging visual artists, this is your canvas. We’re calling on fresh talent to share original works that explore and express the concept of fusion — whether through medium, message, culture or technique. Submissions are open across all visual disciplines, from painting and illustration to digital art, photography, sculpture, and mixed media. To enter, artists can submit high-resolution scans or photographs of their work that capture its full detail and creative intent. This is an opportunity to be seen, celebrated, and considered for a platform that champions bold new voices in contemporary art. The judging panel includes featured artists from Fusion Fest 2026 or hosted masterclasses by established creatives.
Competition info and entry mechanic can be found on the brand's social media platforms.

“The growth of the Mahindra Fusion Fest is a reflection of our deepening connection with South Africans through culture, creativity and community. What began as a celebration of youthful vibrant rainbow nation is further strengthening the roots by retaining the core idea of joining the cultural revolution in their journey to rise together. We are proud to support and grow this unique festival year after year.” stated Mahindra South Africa CEO Rajesh Gupta.

As part of the Mahindra Fusion Fest build-up, Mahindra is also putting fans behind the wheel with the Test Drives of the 3XO Challenge – a high-energy competition inviting festival-goers and roadshow attendees to experience the all-new Mahindra XUV 3XO firsthand. Members of the public are invited to test drive the vehicle at selected roadshow events and stand a chance to win exclusive Fusion Fest VIP tickets, cool merch and an entry into the grand prize draw for a Mahindra XUV 3XO weekend getaway experience. The challenge not only showcases the performance and features of Mahindra’s latest compact SUV but also brings the excitement of the festival onto the open road. Don’t miss your chance to drive, vibe, and win.

Get ready - Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is just around the corner! With excitement already building, tickets sales will open in the next few weeks.

Stay tuned: In the coming weeks, we’ll reveal the full lineup across all fusion categories, plus exclusive details on dealer activations, limited-edition giveaways and unforgettable experiences. This year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever.

Keep up with the latest competition updates, artist reveals, and event build-up by following:

Website: https://mahindra.co.za
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17/10/2025

Batswadi Magazine Launches Weekly Column “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child” by Ntombenhle Khathwane

A Must-Read Column for the Conscious South African Parent

Launching Thursday, 23 October 2025

Johannesburg, Friday, 17 October 2025 – Batswadi Magazine, South Africa’s leading digital-first parenting publication, has announced the launch of a new weekly column titled “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child” by celebrated entrepreneur, author, and conscious parenting advocate Ntombenhle Khathwane. The column is a heart-centered, evidence-informed space for parents and caregivers who seek to raise emotionally secure, self-led, and confident children through compassion, science, and ancestral wisdom.

Batswadi Magazine, known for spotlighting authentic parenting journeys and tackling real issues facing South African families, continues to redefine what modern parenting media can be. Through this new addition, the magazine deepens its commitment to providing meaningful, practical guidance that nurtures both the parent and the child.

With over three decades of lived conscious parenting experience, Ntombenhle Khathwane brings a unique and powerful lens to the conversation. As the founder of AfroBotanics and My Own Kind Of Beautiful Podcast, and a mother of three, her work is anchored in neuroscience, ancestral knowledge, trauma-informed healing, and leadership.

Her new column, “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child”, builds on her lifelong mission to bridge science and spirit in accessible ways. Each piece blends lived experience with neuroscience and African values, offering practical insights for families raising children in today’s fast-changing world. Topics range from emotional regulation and confidence building to breaking generational cycles and nurturing cultural pride.

“When a parent remembers their own worth, a child learns theirs by example. This column is a weekly companion, to steady our voices, soften our homes, and raise children who know they are safe, seen, and significant,” Ntombenhle Khathwane, Columnist, Worthy Parent, Worthy Child.

Batswadi Magazine exists to celebrate the real stories and shared struggles of South African parents. Its voice is both local and universal, raw, reflective, and relevant. The partnership with Ntombenhle Khathwane is a natural alignment of purpose: both are dedicated to uplifting families, bridging generations, and creating content that moves beyond surface-level parenting advice.

Through “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child”, Batswadi Magazine reinforces its position as a publication that values both the emotional and intellectual growth of its readers. Each week, parents can expect to find warmth, perspective, and practical guidance that speaks directly to their lived experiences.

Why This Column Matters

Parenting today exists at the intersection of uncertainty, information overload, and emotional fatigue. For many families, navigating these pressures calls for more than advice: it requires guidance that acknowledges the heart as much as the mind.

Recent studies from UNICEF South Africa highlight the mental health challenges facing young people, with 60% of children and youth expressing a need for mental health support. Columns like “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child” aim to fill that gap by empowering parents with accessible, culturally grounded tools that build resilience, connection, and emotional literacy at home.

What The Column Delivers

“Worthy Parent, Worthy Child” equips parents and caregivers with:
• Nervous-system–aware parenting (co-regulation, repair after rupture, routines that build safety).
• Voice and confidence building for girls and boys (age-by-age checklists, boundary language, healthy risk-taking).
• Cycle-breaking tools for trauma-informed families (self-worth practices, healing conversations, practical scripts).
• Community-rooted, South African context (affordable ideas, multigenerational households, multilingual pride).

Each piece blends lived experience, accessible science, and culturally grounded practices, meeting readers where they are and moving them forward, one doable step at a time.

The “Worthy Parent, Worthy Child” column will publish weekly on Thursdays on Batswadi.co.za and across Batswadi’s digital channels starting Thursday, 23 October 2025.

Connect with Batswadi Magazine:
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Website: https://batswadi.co.za/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/twXaCEYH5vE

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17/10/2025

Miss Polo Universe Africa 2025 announces the Top 10 contestants
The Top 10 Miss Polo Universe contestants will compete at the finals on 9 November 2025 at Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom in Durban, Kwa-Zulu-Natal.
JOHANNESBURG, 17 October 2025 - Miss Polo Universe Africa 2025 is proud to announce the Top 10 contestants who demonstrated purpose, grace, intelligence, and a spirit of giving.
The finalists were selected from an exceptional group of talented and confident women who embodied the values of beauty, intelligence, and empowerment. Miss Polo Universe Africa merges high-stakes diplomacy with purposeful leadership. The chosen Top 10 finalists stood out for their leadership qualities, commitment, and willingness to making a positive impact.
“This is the inaugural Miss Polo Universe Africa. The bar has been set high by the young and inspiring women. They brought a high standard of excellence, grace and intelligence,” said Palesa Matjekane, CEO of Miss Polo Universe Africa.
“Each of these finalists represents strength, grace, and the longing to represent South Africa on an international stage.”
Under the powerful banner "Crown Your Purpose," this isn't just another beauty contest,but a diplomatic and economic gateway that positions South African women as global ambassadors in culture and commerce.
The pageant's game-changing advantage lies in its exclusive partnership with the Royal Family of Dubai, led by visionary Ms. Zainan Al Taher - creating direct diplomatic channels between South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. This will provide the winner access to high-level trade and investment networks, international business mentorship programs, cultural exchange initiatives worth millions, and direct pathways to Middle Eastern markets.
The Top 10 candidates will enter into an intensive Johannesburg boot-camp where they will be trained in: International protocol and diplomatic training. Entrepreneurship masterclasses with UAE business leaders. Media training for global platforms and Social impact project development.
Three winners will be crowned on 9 November 2025 and will fly directly to Dubai for the 29 November 2025 world grand finale - representing not just themselves, but South Africa's economic and cultural potential.
“We are incredibly proud of the journey these contestants have taken so far. We're not crowning beauty queens—we're launching South African ambassadors in trade and culture. This pageant is foreign policy in action,” Matjekane concluded.
The Top 10 finalists are as follows:
Lwandle Maluva Ngwenya Western cape, Cape Town
Monyaka Mohapi Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth
Siyamthanda Mkhalipi Gauteng, Johannesburg
Ayanda Masuku Mpumalanga, Emalahleni
Vuyolwethu Sondlo Gauteng, Midrand
Kefiloe Mary Kolopang Gauteng, Johannesburg
Naledi Amanda Dube Gauteng, Johannesburg
Vega Nova Taljaard Gauteng, Centurion
Thato Mosia Gauteng Johannesburg
Kgaogelo Mary Kolopang Mpumalanga, Siyabuswa
THE SOCIAL MEDIA
and are already trending.

17/10/2025

Khuzani Mpungose Nominated For Two Major Categories At The Hollywood And African Prestigious Awards (HAPAwards) 2025
Nkandla, South Africa, October 2025 — The Indlamlenze Development Foundation proudly announces that African Maskandi superstar Khuzani Mpungose has been nominated for two international categories at the upcoming Hollywood and African Prestigious Awards (HAPAwards) 2025, to be held in Los Angeles, USA.
Khuzani has earned nominations in the categories of: Best Independent Artist (African) and Best Male Artist (African)
These nominations highlight his outstanding influence in African music, his consistency as a cultural ambassador, and his powerful voice that continues to bridge traditional Maskandi with global recognition.
The HAPAwards celebrate exceptional talent from Africa and the African diaspora, acknowledging individuals who have made significant contributions to arts, entertainment, and community development. Established in 2017 and hosted annually in Los Angeles, the awards have become a global platform that amplifies African excellence, bridging creatives from the continent with their peers in Hollywood.
The event attracts international icons, dignitaries, and entertainment leaders who recognise the cultural and social contributions of African talent.
Khuzani’s recognition at this level marks a defining moment for Maskandi — a genre once confined to regional audiences that has now earned its place on the world stage. His HAPAwards nomination represents more than artistic recognition; it affirms the global appetite for authentic African storytelling through music.
“Being recognized on an international stage like the HAPAwards is a blessing and a reflection of how far Maskandi music has come. This recognition belongs to every supporter who believed in the journey of authentic African sound,” said Khuzani Mpungose.
Speaking further about the honour, Khuzani reflected on what the moment means not just for himself, but for African artists at large.
“These nominations are proof that our sound, born in villages and carried through generations, can stand proudly on global stages. It shows that African music, in its truest form, doesn’t need translation — it speaks straight to the heart,” he added.
Khuzani’s journey is a story of persistence, innovation, and leadership. Born and raised in Nkandla, he has become a household name across Africa, selling out major venues and setting new attendance records in cities such as Durban, Johannesburg, and Pietermaritzburg. His annual Gcwalisa Spring Picnic All White and Blue Nation Festival events attract tens of thousands of fans — proving that Maskandi is not only alive but thriving in a modern, youth-driven market.
Over the past decade, Khuzani has broken multiple industry barriers. His albums have consistently achieved platinum status, earning him one of the largest followings in African traditional music. He is among the few independent artists who have sustained commercial dominance without major label backing — a testament to his creative independence and strong connection with his audience.
Through his label and movement, Indlamlenze Development Foundation, and his philanthropic arm, Indlamlenze Foundation, Khuzani continues to uplift communities through music, education, and empowerment projects. His foundation runs mentorship programmes for young musicians, supports cultural preservation in rural communities, and contributes to social welfare initiatives that promote youth development. His HAPAwards nomination stands as recognition not just for his artistry, but for his broader impact on society.
In recent years, Khuzani has used his platform to redefine what it means to be a modern African artist — fusing traditional Maskandi with contemporary sounds, while remaining deeply rooted in heritage. His storytelling, stage presence, and ability to connect with audiences across languages have earned him respect not only in South Africa but across the continent.
For media enquiries, please contact Lwazi Nongauza 074 461 9084
About Khuzani Mpungose
Known affectionately as King Khuba, Khuzani Mpungose is a multi-award-winning artist whose influence has transformed the landscape of African Maskandi music. His catalogue includes numerous chart-topping albums and collaborations that have positioned him as a symbol of resilience and authenticity. Over the years, he has won multiple awards for Best Maskandi Album, Song of the Year, and Artist of the Year — reflecting his sustained dominance in a competitive music industry.

17/10/2025

MOLIY AND TYLA UNITE FOR NEW SINGLE “BODY GO”
TWO OF AFRICA’S BRIGHTEST VOICES DELIVER A PAN-AFRICAN DANCE ANTHEM

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - October 17, 2025) - Today, viral hitmaker MOLIY returns with her electrifying new single “Body Go” featuring Grammy-winning superstar TYLA, available now on all streaming platforms.

The collaboration between two of Africa’s brightest stars delivers an effortless fusion of R&B, Pop, Amapiano, and Afrobeats, creating a global dance anthem that celebrates rhythm, confidence, and movement.

“Body Go” follows the massive success of MOLIY’s record-breaking global smash “Shake It To The Max – FLY [Remix]”, which surpassed 1 billion streams and was named one of the Songs of the Summer 2025 by both Spotify and TikTok.

Fans of each other’s artistry, Ghanaian-American MOLIY and South African TYLA came together with a shared vision - to celebrate feminine power, unity, and joy. Their chemistry radiates through every beat, creating an empowering anthem for the ultimate girls’ night out, while continuing to push African sounds further into the global mainstream.

The collaboration came together organically. After MOLIY recorded the song, she immediately felt it needed “another baddie” - and sent it to Tyla, who instantly connected with it and recorded her verse before they even met in person. Their first meeting in New York City sealed their bond.

MOLIY says: “When I was done recording the song, I just knew it needed another baddie, so I sent Tyla the record hoping she’d feel it. When she sent back her verse, it was perfect. The first time we met, it didn’t even feel like the first time. We laughed the whole time, and she even surprised me with flowers for my birthday. She’s such a girl’s girl! That’s when I knew this song captured the right energy needed for a girls’ night out, and I’m so excited to release it.

” TYLA adds: “I remember hearing ‘Body Go’ for the first time and thinking, ‘Yeah, I need to be on this.’ Meeting MOLIY in New York felt like meeting an old friend. This one is special because it’s so playful and light. It feels like you’re outside with your girls, not thinking too hard, just living, just moving. MOLIY and I clicked right away on this track.”

Produced by French producer FRNCH and Grammy-winning producer DEE/MA, “Body Go” blends pulsating amapiano basslines with smooth Afrobeats melodies and irresistible hooks, embodying the freedom, joy, and movement of a night out across Africa’s vibrant cities — from Accra to Johannesburg, Lagos to Nairobi.

About MOLIY
MOLIY is one of Africa’s most dynamic voices, blending Afropop, R&B, and dancehall with fearless flair. Her viral hit “Shake It To The Max” became a worldwide sensation, and its remix featuring Skillibeng and Shenseea cemented her as a global breakout star — surpassing 1 billion streams and topping charts worldwide.

The record held #1 on Billboard’s U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart for 22 consecutive weeks, appeared in Spotify’s Top 5 Songs of the Summer, and was listed among TikTok’s Top 10 Global Songs of Summer 2025. She co-helmed the global hit “Sad Girlz Luv Money” with Amaarae, followed by a remix with Kali Uchis, and has since collaborated with Sean Paul, Chlöe Bailey, and SadBoi. MOLIY made history as the first Ghanaian musician to perform at the BET Awards, where “Shake It To The Max – FLY [Remix]” earned nominations for Best Afrobeats and Song of the Summer at the MTV VMAs 2025. With each release, MOLIY continues to redefine what it means to be a global African artist, bridging cultures, genres, and generations.

About TYLA
TYLA is a Grammy Award-winning South African superstar redefining global pop with her amapiano-infused sound. Her breakout hit “Water” became a worldwide cultural phenomenon, earning her the GRAMMY for Best African Music Performance and making her the highest-charting African female soloist on the Billboard Hot 100. Her self-titled debut album, Tyla, topped charts globally and featured collaborations with Tems and Travis Scott. The album surpassed 1 billion Spotify streams within three months and earned multiple gold and platinum certifications worldwide. Summer 2024 marked Tyla’s world domination, with standout performances at the Paris Olympics, Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and a sweep of major awards, including wins at the MTV VMAs, Billboard Music Awards, BET Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards, and South African Music Awards. Following one of the most successful debut eras in modern African music, Tyla released the deluxe edition Tyla+, featuring the breakout hit “Push 2 Start”, earning her a second Billboard Hot 100 entry. Her latest project, the 2025 EP WWP, continues to showcase her evolution and commitment to elevating African-rooted sounds on the global stage.

16/10/2025

Dalom Kids Celebrate SAMA Nomination, Premiere “Simkhuzile” Music Video, and Announce International Tour

Johannesburg, South Africa – 16th of October 2025– South Africa’s legendary Afro-pop group Dalom Kids are back in full force, celebrating a SAMA Award nomination for their collaboration with Friends, the TV premiere of their stunning new music video “Simkhuzile”, and an exciting lineup of performances in South Africa and the UK.

Originally composed by the late Dan Tshanda as Awulaleli, Simkhuzile has been masterfully reimagined by Dalom Kids, connecting generations while staying true to the timeless spirit of the original. Produced in collaboration with Lowsheen, HarryCane, and Charlotte Lyf, the track blends nostalgic melodies with a fresh, contemporary Afro-pop sound that resonates with today’s audiences. Its emotional depth and cultural significance have earned it a South African Music Awards nomination, further cementing Dalom Kids’ enduring legacy in African music.

“Being nominated for a SAMA is a huge honor,” says Sylvia Tshanda, the writer, producer and composer of Dalom Music. “This recognition reminds us that the spirit of Dan Tshanda and the magic of Dalom Kids’ music continue to live on, inspiring both the old and new generation.”

Fans can now experience the magic visually, as the official “Simkhuzile” music video premieres on TV this week. The video captures the heart of Dalom Kids - their vibrant energy, unity, and signature Afro-pop flair - showcasing a visual celebration of love, nostalgia, and resilience that has defined the group for over three decades.

Dalom Kids are also taking their music directly to fans with a series of live performances. In South Africa, they will headline the End of Year Disco Inferno at Luxor Maboneneg in Johannesburg on Saturday, 29 November 2025, alongside Boss Lady. Internationally, they will bring their infectious energy to the UK with Peacock and Vee Mampeezy, performing at Olympia Lounge, Leicester, on Friday, 14 November 2025, and Club Exodus, Leeds, on Saturday, 15 November 2025. These shows promise to be unforgettable celebrations of music and culture, uniting fans across generations under one groove.

About Dalom Kids
For over three decades, Dalom Kids have been one of South Africa’s most iconic Afro-pop groups. With timeless hits and vibrant performances, they continue to celebrate African culture while innovating sounds that resonate across generations and borders.

Connect with Dalom Kids on TikTok

15/10/2025

End of an Era for 47-Year-Old Retail Giant Dis-Chem
By Ernest Skosana, Staff Reporter

After nearly two decades at the helm, Saul Saltzman, son of Dis-Chem founders Ivan and Lynette Saltzman, has formally resigned as Executive Director of the retail pharmacy giant. His resignation will take effect on 27 February 2026, marking another milestone in the ongoing leadership transition within one of South Africa’s most iconic family-run businesses.

The company confirmed that while Saul will step down from his executive duties, he will remain on the Dis-Chem board as a non-independent non-executive director, continuing to contribute to the group’s strategic direction and governance.

In a statement, the board expressed its appreciation to Saul for his “years of dedicated leadership and valuable service,” noting that his contribution had been instrumental in shaping Dis-Chem’s growth and reputation.

The announcement follows a series of significant structural and leadership changes within the company, as the Saltzman family gradually loosens its operational control.

A Generational Shift

Dis-Chem’s co-founder and former CEO Ivan Saltzman stepped down from his executive role in June 2023, handing over leadership to then-CFO Rui Morais, who now serves as Chief Executive Officer. Ivan continues to serve as an executive director on the board.

Saul’s resignation comes amid a broader family restructuring that began in June 2025, when his brothers Dan and Mark Saltzman inherited a combined R6.8 billion in company shares. The transaction, part of the founders’ succession plan, reduced the family’s investment vehicle Ivlyn’s stake from 29.31% to 4.06%, while giving Dan and Mark direct ownership stakes of 12.62% each.

Despite the reduced shareholding, Dis-Chem confirmed that the shares “remain within the Saltzman family,” preserving the company’s founding ownership structure.

Currently, only Ivan remains as a full-time executive director, following Lynette’s transition in 2022 to an operational role within Dis-Chem’s beauty division.

Strategic Realignment

The internal restructuring coincided with a wave of executive share sales in 2024, viewed by analysts as part of a broader generational transition. Saul sold R120 million worth of shares, while fellow executive director Stan Goetsch sold shares valued at over R300 million.

Market observers described the move as an indicator of the company’s evolution from a family-led operation to a professionally managed corporate structure.

From Small Beginnings to a Retail Empire

The Dis-Chem story began in 1978, when Ivan and Lynette Saltzman purchased a small pharmacy in Mondeor, Johannesburg, for R10,000. Dissatisfied with how the business was run while working as a locum, Ivan saw an opportunity to create something different.

By 1984, the couple had opened their second store in Randridge Mall, defying sceptics who doubted the potential of the new shopping centre. As Lynette balanced motherhood with managing the growing business, the Dis-Chem model of discounted medicines and diversified product offerings began to take off.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Dis-Chem expanded rapidly across Johannesburg and Pretoria, introducing private-label products in 1997 and launching the Dis-Chem Foundation in 2006.

By the time the company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in 2016, Dis-Chem had grown into a retail powerhouse with 100 stores and annual revenues exceeding R15.5 billion. Ivan described the listing as “an important next phase” in the company’s growth journey.

Today, nearly five decades after its humble beginnings, Dis-Chem operates 330 stores nationwide — including 285 pharmacies and 45 baby outlets — and boasts a market capitalisation of R27 billion.

As Saul Saltzman prepares to step back from day-to-day operations, his departure symbolizes the end of an era — but also the continuation of a legacy that has shaped South African retail for nearly half a century.

Mzansi Newspaper

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